Why have an Integrated Business Management system
Why do businesses need management systems?

There is a wealth of information written and on the Internet that talks about business management; but most owners of small business, say 15-100 staff, do not know where to start. 

These businesses usually have financial management tools such as MYOB, but these only deal with some financial aspects.  How to fix the important non-financial aspects of the business is usually not known.

Ask these questions:

• Do we truly align company personnel with the objectives of the business?

• Do personnel "do the right things" to make the business profitable?

In an increasingly competitive environment it is important to know:

• How does the business actually work?

• Who in the business knows how it works?

• Who is accountable for the work?

• Where are the strengths and weaknesses (risks) to the business?

• Where are improvements required to optimise business performance?

• Will the business successfully operate if I am away for an extended period?

Business risks are the nightmare of the business owner; the only way is to be pro-active. Do you want to beat the opposition by opening new branches, franchising your business, or by providing exceptional service or just by having your staff know what to do in all situations? 

John Walker of Integrated Management Systems knew there had to be a solution to this problem.  John began work in laboratory work in quality control in the beverage industry in the early 70’s.  After many years he started work in implementing quality and environmental management systems (ISO 9001, 14001 & AS 4801), firstly in Sydney Water, then as a consultant. He found that although these international standards were useful is setting up business systems to help deal with problems; they do not cover all aspects of the business.  They are not integrated systems, they are restricted to traditional production related situations and they have no tools to aid usability. 

What was needed was:-

1. A system of fully developed management tools

2. No restriction whatsoever on usage environment (e.g. sales and marketing, retail, educational, safety systems etc etc)

3. Integrated system usable and transparent across multiple company sites

4. Rapid identification of:
   <> business processes
   <> business risks
   <> accountabilities
   <> opportunities for improvement

He believes he has found it in Action Management - a management system that addresses these issues and more.  Follow the link to find out more. John has AMS Systems Certification.

Note that while the Action Management system is the preferred management tool of the author, he is still happy to consult in management systems ‘the old fashioned way’.